The Birmingham Mail has been inundated with complaints from frustrated readers over the roadworks, and only last week motorists were warned that work on the Chester Road in Erdington would be extended for three months into October.

Mr Dromey said: “Local residents and businesses were rightly concerned over unfolding traffic chaos due to poor planning of the maintenance of our road network.”

“I took up the matter with The Highways Agency and Birmingham City Council. I am pleased to say that progress has been made. A more sensible plan to avoid gridlock in Erdington is being implemented.”

In a letter to Mr Dromey Highways Agency asset manager Andrew Butterfield said: “I apologise for the inconvenience caused by the waterproofing scheme.”

He said that following discussions it has been decided that closure of the M6 junction 5 southbound slip road will now only take place from June, once work on Junction 6 slip roads are open.

He added: “These are essential works which are required to maintain the integrity of the motorway structures at the junctions and safety of road users.”